There are many treatments for joint pain. To determine the best treatment for your particular case, it is important to consult your doctor or a specialist. The treatment options include medication (prescription and non-prescription), physical therapy, joint supplements, topical agents and injections. Alternative treatments like acupuncture are also available. In this article, let’s take a close look at a particular form of physical therapy.

Hydrotherapy Overview

Hydrotherapy is quickly gaining popularity as a joint pain treatment. It has been proven to be helpful in countless cases all over the globe. Hydrotherapy is a joint pain remedy that involves performing specific movements or exercises in a swimming pool. However, the water should be warmer than normal at about 33-36 degrees Celsius. There are pools for this purpose in many physiotherapy establishments and hospitals.

A physiotherapist or other qualified individuals will guide the patient through a series of exercises. It can be performed as a group or individually. The ideal depth of the pool should be around the chest area of the patient. There are specific exercises for particular joint issues. The exercises are tailored fit for the condition of the patient whether it is arthritis, back pain or any kind of joint pain. Hydrotherapy is currently one of the most popular joint pain remedies.

How Hydrotherapy Works
Hydrotherapy works because the water supports the patient’s weight thus stress is taken off the joints. The movements become less painful and range of motion can be improved. At the same time, the water also provides some resistance so the muscles can be strengthened. The higher-than-normal temperature of the water relaxes and warms the muscles, tendons and joints. This also improves blood flow throughout the body which is vital form repair and regeneration. It can also help flush out toxins and other harmful substances from the body.

Studies on Hydrotherapy

Another reason why hydrotherapy is one of the most popular joint pain remedies today is because there is a lot of clinical evidence proving its effectiveness in treating joint pain especially those that involve arthritis. Studies indicate that it can help reduce swelling and provide overall joint pain relief. It can also help improve general fitness and strength without the stress from the usual exercises like lifting weights.

Accessing Hydrotherapy

If you want to try hydrotherapy, you have to check with your doctor first. If you are currently under other joint pain treatments, hydrotherapy may not be suitable. In many cases, it is included in your health coverage. However, some health insurance companies are still unaware of the fact that hydrotherapy is among the most effective joint pain remedies. If you are a viable patient for hydrotherapy, your doctor can recommend facilities and physiotherapists that can help you. The number if private facilities for hydrotherapy across the United States are rapidly increasing which is testament to the effectiveness of this kind of alternative treatment. Some local pools even offer hydrotherapy classes especially for seniors.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that hydrotherapy is one of the most effective joint pain remedies. Alternative treatments like these are quickly becoming popular because of the scientific evidence proving their effectiveness. For best results, it can be combined with other joint pain treatments like the use of joint supplements and physical therapy. Of course, it is still best to consult your doctor regarding the best treatment for your joint pain.